Third round of Destination Australia scholarships open, up to $15,000 on offer to ECEC

More students, including those seeking qualifications in early childhood education and care (ECEC) will be drawn to study in regional Australia, with the third round of the Federal Government’s Destination Australia scholarship program officially open.

Regional universities and vocational education providers can now apply to offer scholarships at their institutions for up to $15,000 per student a year, for those students undertaking a qualification ranging from a Certificate IV through to PhD.

Federal Minister for Education and Youth, Alan Tudge, said the Destination Australia Program was a great opportunity for regional providers to entice students to study and experience the benefits of regional living.

“We were overwhelmed with applications for 2020 and 2021, which shows a clear desire among students and providers to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity,” he added.

Round three of the program will support around 380 students starting in 2022, while also delivering $19.5 million in Australian Government funding to continue supporting 800 ongoing scholarship holders.

Federal Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education Andrew Gee said the Destination Australia scholarships would help country communities as they recover from drought, bushfires, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our regions have a lot to offer students. Not only can they benefit from an exceptional quality of life escaping the big cities but they can also access a world-class education.”

“In turn, these students can bring new skills to our regions and provide a much needed economic boost to country Australia,” he added.

Applications are now open and will close on 15 June. For more information visit www.dese.gov.au/destination-australia